Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Co-operation Jose Manuel Albares Bueno said that His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani's visit to Spain provides the opportunity to develop the enormous potential for collaboration that still exists between the two countries.
He said, in an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), that the visit was a great honour, and opportunity to enhance bilateral co-operation in the political and economic fields, and to discuss regional and international issues, led by the peace process and stability in the Middle East.
He praised the level of bilateral relations the two countries enjoy, who celebrate this year the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations.
He added that the two sides are keen on a strategic partnership that deepens bilateral with renewed ambition. He renewed commitment to the political dialogue that will be held every year at the level of Foreign Affairs.
He said that the visit of the Amir helped enhance co-operation to the defence, educational, investment, economic, energy, scientific, university and judicial fields, among others. He highlighted that the economic content of the visit will be important, there is great potential to improve Qatari investments in Spain, business relations and bilateral trade.
He highlighted that Qatar is one of the most prominent investors in Spain, and noted that Spain is going to be one of the fastest growing major European economies next year, which presents opportunities for Qatar to invest. He also said that Spanish companies are keen on being a bigger part of future developmental projects in Qatar. He said that Spain highly values the regional and international role of Qatar and we agree on its multilateral approach to global problems. He added that both share the belief in mediation, dialogue to resolve differences and respect for the principles of the UN Charter, highlighting Qatar's success in mediating in Afghanistan.
The minister said that Spain greatly appreciates Qatar's help in the repatriation of Spanish citizens from Kabul last summer, in addition to its humanitarian aid in Afghanistan and its dialogue in the country. On Qatar's hosting of the World Cup, he said it was "great news that Qatar is holding the World Cup and that it is for the first time in an Arab country. I congratulate you on the progress of the preparations and I wish you all the best during your organisation."